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Floating Structures Enhanced by Natural Ventilation and Concrete Resilience for Coastal Living

Authors:
Steven Jose Mendoza Guznay, María Augusta Bernal, Fernanda Inga
Floating Structures Enhanced by Natural Ventilation and Concrete Resilience for Coastal Living
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Elevated concrete volumes integrated with floating gardens and abundant natural light create a seamless connection to the coastal environment, serving as multifunctional spaces for living and working.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design incorporates natural ventilation to enhance indoor air quality.
02
Floating gardens strategically positioned to promote biodiversity and aesthetic connectivity.
03
Integration of transparent glass facades maximizes ocean views and natural light.
04
Utilization of locally sourced materials to reduce environmental impact.
05
Modular spaces allow for flexible use across residential and professional functions.

The project titled "The Ocean With Us" is an architectural design located in Elafonisi, Crete, Greece. This undertaking seeks to integrate workspace and residential environments with the surrounding natural coastal landscape. The architecture emphasizes a fluid relationship between built forms and the ocean, providing functional spaces that cater to living, working, and recreational activities.

The design consists of interconnected volumes that create a modular environment suited for varying uses. The project comprises three primary zones: living spaces, working spaces, and recreational areas. Residential areas are carefully positioned to maximize views of the sea, while working spaces foster creativity through open layouts with abundant natural light. Recreational zones are designed to encourage social interactions and cultural engagement, ultimately aiming to enhance community connectivity.

Innovative Use of Materiality and Space
The project employs a selection of materials that reflect sustainability and contextual integration. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, offering durability against coastal conditions, while glass is utilized extensively to reinforce transparency and visual connectivity with the environment. Wood is included in interior finishes, contributing warmth to the spaces, and vegetation is incorporated for aesthetic enhancement and ecological balance.

The unique approach of the project lies in its adaptability and modularity. Each space is designed to allow flexibility in usage, accommodating the changing needs of residents and workers alike. The architectural organization supports a network of pedestrian paths that promote exploration and social interaction, ensuring accessibility to all zones and encouraging communal activities.

Integration with Local Environment and Community
"The Ocean With Us" demonstrates a keen awareness of its geographical context. The design responds to the local architectural vernacular while pushing traditional boundaries. The orientation of the buildings is deliberate, fostering interaction with the serene ocean while reducing noise from surrounding urban areas. This thoughtful organization encourages users to immerse themselves in the natural environment.

Further Examination and Insights
For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the project's architectural concepts, it is recommended to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs. This project represents not just another architectural endeavor but a thoughtful response to contemporary needs and environmental considerations. Exploring the presentation will provide additional insights into its design philosophy and functional outcomes, showcasing how architecture can harmonize with the surrounding landscape.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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